A controversy has surfaced in Coimbatore over the GD Naidu flyover on Avinashi Road, with questions raised on whether around Rs 2 crore was spent on activities such as the foundation-laying, inauguration event, photographs and drone video coverage.
The 10.1-km elevated corridor between Uppilipalayam and Goldwins was built by the Tamil Nadu Highways Department and was recently inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who also named it after G.D. Naidu. The project allocation was initially stated as Rs 1,621 crore, later revised in 2024 to Rs 1,791 crore through a government order—an increase of Rs 170 crore.
According to the report, the revised estimate has drawn scrutiny because pedestrian underpasses were expected at five locations based on technical and drawing approvals. The Highways Department is said to have dropped the underpass plan citing metro rail considerations, which raised questions about why costs still increased. Residents complain that pedestrians are struggling to cross the road, with frequent accidents reported.
Separately, allegations have emerged regarding land acquisition near the Peelmadu Varadaraja Mill area, where an entry ramp exists. Locals say the service road is narrower than required, and utilities such as a transformer and electricity infrastructure remain obstructing the roadway. They also allege that despite markings indicating land to be acquired, sufficient land was not taken over, and a stormwater drain was diverted—bringing the issue to light.
The report notes that a dedicated land acquisition wing under the Highways Department functions under a DRO-led unit, prompting questions about its role in this case. It calls for a review of how much land was meant to be acquired, how much has been acquired so far, and the compensation paid to landowners, even as the claimed Rs 2 crore inauguration and publicity spend continues to fuel debate.
